Book online only

Open Daily 8am -9pm

Click here for up to date information on the Cliffs of Moher Trail.

O'Briens Tower
O'Briens Tower

O’Brien’s Tower

The 190th Anniversay of O'Brien's Tower

This summer marks a very special milestone: the 190th anniversary of O’Brien’s Tower, the iconic viewing point that has stood watch over the Cliffs since 1835. To celebrate this historic occasion, a public event will be held on Saturday, 21st June at 6:00 PM, weather permitting. Everyone is welcome to attend, with a particular invitation extended to former staff who have worked at the tower and anyone bearing the O’Brien surname. The celebration promises a vibrant and festive atmosphere, with local Irish musicians performing live outside O’Brien’s Tower. Inside the tower, guests can enjoy complimentary taster Irish Coffee served by JJ Corry as well as other treats, a renowned local whiskey bonder. Since 2022, JJ Corry has matured whiskey barrels within the tower itself, bringing a unique flavour and economic benefit to the region.

Contact Details

Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Will you attend the 190th Birthday of O'Brien's Tower?
Would you like to sign up to our mailing list to keep up to date on all the news at the Cliffs of Moher Experience?

Admission

Evening admission rates apply (Seniors 65 years and up: €6; Adults: €8).

Click Here for Admission

OBT 190th Anniversary

O’Brien’s Tower

The Cliffs of Moher’s elemental beauty has captivated visitors since the 19th century, making them one of Ireland’s first tourist attractions and one of the top things to see in Clare.

The tower was built on the cliffs in 1835 by the local landlord and MP Sir Cornelius O’Brien as an observation point for the English tourists who frequented the area at the time.

It is said to have initially served as a teahouse or folly; another version tells of Cornelius building the tower in order to impress the women he was courting!

Whatever the truth, from this vantage point on a clear day you can see the Aran Islands and the Twelve Bens of Connemara across Galway Bay.

Explore the views from O’Brien’s Tower

Visit O’Brien’s Tower Gallery 

O'Briens Tower
Beautiful sunrise
Birchfield house, home of Cornelius O’Brien
Cornelius O’Brien home

Cornelius O’Brien (1782–1857)

A descendant of the first High King of Ireland Brian Boru, Cornelius O’Brien was the landlord in the locality. He became a member of parliament (MP) for Clare in 1832, an office he held for 20 years.

He built O’Brien’s tower in 1835 as part of a larger investment in making the Cliffs of Moher accessible, safe and attractive to visitors. This made him popular among his tenants, who were given employment when little else was available. Hear more about Cornelius O’Brien by downloading our App and Audio guide.

Entry to the O’Brien’s Tower Experience and tour are included in the admission price. O’Brien’s Tower is available for exclusive hire for weddings.

Special Occasions Learn more about Cornelius
O’Brien's Barrels
Ageing well at the Cliffs of Moher Experience

O’Brien’s Barrels

Brought to you by local JJ Corry’s Whiskey Bonders and the Cliffs of Moher Experience.

Sir Cornelius O’Brien would no doubt approve of this collaboration between JJ Corry, local whiskey bonders, and the Cliffs of Moher Experience.

Nine 50 liter barrels of whiskey have been placed in O’Brien’s Tower where they will be exposed to the effects the Cliffs of Moher will have on the maturing, sherry-influenced whiskies.

Learn More

 

Renewed our vows here on our 55th Wedding Anniversary. We had a Celtic Ceremony that was perfect. Very memorable.

TripAdvisor Review Sep 2021

Cliffs of Moher